Bastione di Saint Remy is a landmark terrace in Piazza Costituzione, linking Cagliari’s lower town with the Castello district. Built in the late 19th century over older city walls, it has a monumental staircase, a limestone arch and an upper terrace with views across the rooftops, port and sea. Walk beneath the columns in the covered gallery, then head up for the panorama. The terrace is free to enter, and exhibitions or concerts are sometimes held on site.
Built over Cagliari’s old walls
Bastione di Saint Remy rises above Piazza Costituzione, between the lower city and the Castello district. The structure was built over older defensive walls as Cagliari’s role as a military stronghold came to an end. Its name honours Filippo-Guglielmo Pallavicini, Baron of Saint Remy, the first Piedmontese viceroy in Cagliari.
Work on the bastion took place between 1896 and 1902. The design is associated with Gaetano Cima, while Giuseppe Costa and Fulgenzio Setti designed the Umberto I terrace. White and yellow limestone and classical details give the complex its distinctive appearance. The monumental staircase and arch form its most recognisable approach from the square.
The staircase, gallery and terrace
From Piazza Costituzione, a broad double staircase leads up beneath the triumphal arch. The route continues through a covered gallery, where limestone columns with Corinthian capitals frame the passage. The gallery is a destination in its own right, and is also used for exhibitions and cultural events.
At the top, Umberto I terrace opens onto views of the city and the Gulf of Cagliari. From here, you can look across the old-town rooftops towards the port and the sea. The elevated position makes the terrace a useful place to get your bearings before exploring Castello or returning to the lower streets.
Getting up and exploring nearby
The stairs are not the only way to reach the upper level. An elevator provides access, including for visitors with a stroller or wheelchair. If you prefer to approach by bus from Cagliari Centrale, routes 6, 7, 8 and 10 stop at Regina Elena, close to the elevator entrance. Walking from the station takes about 10 to 12 minutes.
Once on the terrace, you can continue into Castello, the historic district above the lower city. Cagliari Cathedral is among the nearby sights, and the area’s narrow streets connect the bastion with other landmarks. The upper terrace is exposed to the sun, so a later visit can be more comfortable in hot weather. Its outlook over the city and sea is especially appealing as the light changes towards sunset.
Häufige Fragen
Is Bastione di Saint Remy free to visit?
Yes. Entry to the bastion is free.
How do you get to Bastione di Saint Remy from Cagliari Centrale?
Take bus 6, 7, 8 or 10 to Regina Elena, near the elevator entrance. Walking takes about 10 to 12 minutes.
Is there an elevator at Bastione di Saint Remy?
Yes. An elevator provides access to the upper level, as an alternative to the staircase.
What can you see from the terrace?
The terrace looks over Cagliari’s rooftops, port and sea.
